Thomas Abidoye
(He/Him)
As seen in:
World Job Info Hub
Covers:
Politics, Governance, Public Policy, Education, Climate, Agriculture, Crime, Social Development, Court, Agriculture, Technology, Humanitarian Initiatives, Artificial Intelligence, Security
Doesn't Cover:
Sports
Multimedia Journalist// Content Writer// Social Media Manager//PR Expert// Communication Specialist/Founder, AgriScoop Africa// Aspire Institute '26 Alumna
Interview
What was your first job as a journalist?
Reporter
Have you ever used a typewriter?
No
How is social media changing news?
Social media has made news travel faster than ever. It gives journalists a wider audience, but it also makes fact-checking more important because misinformation spreads just as quickly.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
Nil
What does it mean to be a journalist?
To me, journalism is a responsibility, not just a profession. It's about telling stories that matter, giving people a voice, asking difficult questions, and ensuring the public has accurate information to make informed decisions. I believe every story has the power to create awareness, inspire change, and make an impact.
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
I like pitches that get straight to the point. Tell me what's happening, why it matters, and back it up with facts or documents if you have them. If it's timely, relevant, and has real public interest, I'll definitely take a look.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
I use Google Docs, Microsoft Word, WordPress, Google Search Console, Google Trends, Canva, Adobe Photoshop, Meta Business Suite, capcut
What's your favorite social network?
Facebook is my favorite social network
Who do you wish followed you?
President Trump Press Secretary
Why did you become a journalist?
I believe stories can make a difference. I wanted to give people a voice, hold those in power accountable, and report issues that affect everyday lives.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
News gathering and editing
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
Osun Governorhsip Election
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Be curious, verify every fact, and let accuracy come before speed. Build trust through ethical reporting, listen to the people behind every story, and never stop learning because journalism is about serving the public with credible information
When's the best time to pitch you?
Preferably on weekday mornings. I’m interested in well-researched story ideas on politics, governance, public policy, agriculture, education, climate, and stories with real community impact. A concise pitch with a clear angle and supporting facts is always appreciated.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
One of the best pitches I've ever received was a tip about the discovery of a suspected bandits' enclave in Ogun State. It led to the prompt deployment of security operatives and highlighted how timely, credible information can have a real public impact.
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
One of the worst pitches I ever received involved information that turned out to be unreliable. After I published the story, the newsmaker changed their plans, making the report inaccurate. It reinforced an important lesson for me: always verify information thoroughly, no matter how convincing a source may seem.
What's your favorite drink?
Palm wine
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
I'm usually in the field covering events, interviewing sources, or visiting communities to report stories that matter. I also enjoy meeting people, exploring local communities, and following developments in politics, agriculture, education, and social issues. When I'm taking a break from reporting, I spend time reading, learning new digital journalism skills, and planning projects that use storytelling to create positive impact.
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
Punch newspaper
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
Covering politics is that it's all about politicians. In reality, political journalism is about people. Every policy, election, or government decision affects everyday lives, so my job is to explain those impacts accurately and hold leaders accountable.
Would you like to take the Muck Rack Interview?
Create a Muck Rack profile.